© 2024 WOSU Public Media
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

From Lincoln’s election to the Civil War

This engraving sketch by Winslow Homer depicts a battle scene of the American Civil War (1861-1865).
AP
This engraving sketch by Winslow Homer depicts a battle scene of the American Civil War (1861-1865).

This episode originally aired on May 2, 2024.

What lessons can the five months leading up to the Civil War teach us about the political landscape of today?

A new book delves into that short span of time between Abraham Lincoln’s election and the start of the Civil War, calling it “a political horror story.”

It’s a reminder that we often don’t see a cataclysm coming until it’s too late.

Joining us this hour is author Erik Larson, one of the most popular authors of non-fiction history, discussing his new book The Demon of Unrest: A Saga of Hubris, Heartbreak, and Heroism at the Dawn of the Civil War.

Guest:

If you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Stay Connected